Suspension of exam fees a victory for the people — Peter Obi

By Precious Mark

The Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi, has described the suspension of the newly introduced WAEC and NECO examination fees as a major victory for the Nigerian people.

Reacting on Monday to the suspension of the planned fee increment, Obi expressed relief over the development but criticized the initial introduction of the policy, arguing that it was an unnecessary burden during a time of economic hardship.

“While I commend the authorities for listening to the widespread public outcry and suspending the policy, it must be said that the fee was an unnecessary burden that should never have been introduced at this time of great hardship, when we should be doing everything possible to invest in basic education and reduce the millions of out-of-school children in Nigeria,” Obi said.

The former Anambra State governor stated that at a time when many families are struggling to make ends meet, access to education should be expanded rather than restricted.

He emphasized that education must be treated as a fundamental right and a public good, rather than a channel for government revenue.

Warning against the long-term impact of such policies on the country’s development, he said, “Imposing multiple fees at the basic education level risks denying many children their right to education. At that stage, the State has a duty to invest in educating and preparing its citizens for productive lives, not to erect financial barriers that keep them out of school.”

Obi further urged the federal government to look inward and reconsider other current economic policies that are putting a strain on the masses.

“True leadership is demonstrated not only by making decisions but also by having the humility to reverse policies that impose unnecessary hardship on the people. Many other anti-people policies deserve similar reconsideration,” he added.

While appreciating the collective effort that led to the policy reversal, Obi thanked the citizens, parents, and advocacy groups whose voices made the victory possible, reiterating his belief that “A New Nigeria is Possible.”